Exploring the Rehabilitative Role of the Prison Library: Addressing Sensitive Information Needs via Cultural Activities

Abstract

This chapter explores the role of cultural activity within prison libraries for not only the general wellbeing of prisoners, but also as a form of indirect intervention for addressing unrecognised and/or unaddressed information needs amongst prisoners; particularly important needs of a more sensitive nature often repressed (e.g. remorse, mental health, relationships). Drawing on research to date, the authors discuss the information needs of prisoners, the associated benefits of cultural activity for information need recognition and understanding, and the support role of the prison library; and in relation, identify opportunities for further development of the library as a key change agent in the progressive rehabilitation of prisoners.

Citation

Canning, C. and Buchanan, S. (2021), "Exploring the Rehabilitative Role of the Prison Library: Addressing Sensitive Information Needs via Cultural Activities", Garner, J. (Ed.) Exploring the Roles and Practices of Libraries in Prisons: International Perspectives (Advances in Librarianship, Vol. 49), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 11-37. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-283020210000049002